Here’s a memorable passage from Breath where James Nestor offers an eloquent summary of the benefits of slow breathing:
“In many ways, this resonant breathing offered the same benefits as meditation for people who didn't want to meditate. Or yoga for people who didn't like to get off the couch. It offered the healing touch of prayer for people who weren't religious.”
***
P.S. Note that the essential words are “in many ways”; not “in all ways.” Breathing isn’t a one-to-one replacement for these other powerful health practices. But, it is a nice “all-in-one” option that covers many bases 👏